The heart, located in the mediastinum, is the central structure of the cardiovascular system. It is protected by the bony structures of the sternum anteriorly, the spinal column posteriorly, and the rib cage.
Clinical Tip:The cone-shaped heart has its tip (apex) just above the diaphragm to the left of the midline. This is why we may think of the heart as being on the left side, since the strongest beat can be heard or felt here.